How to Train Dogs for the Wilderness

Are you planning to go into the wildness with your pet pooch? If so then it’s important to train him/her for the trip whether it’s for hiking or hunting. Here are some helpful tips:

Clean up after your dog

It’s important to clean up after your dog/pup because if you don’t it can be a tough situations for other hikers. It’s important to keep in mind that pet waste is different from wildlife waste. So it can be a health hazard for both people and animals.

You have a few main options. You could bring plastic grocery bags or portable toilet containers. Sometimes you can even get doggy bags from trailheads to make the process easier. If you’re in a true wilderness then make sure to follow the same rule of human waste. It should be 200+ feet away from trails, camps, and water sources. When possible bury the waste to prevent health hazards.

Consider dog booties

This is a good option if your dog isn’t used to walking on rough terrain or you simply want to protect their feet on it. If you pick this option make sure to spend some time letting them get used to wearing the booties. It’s also important to include some “breaks” that lets the animal’s feet cool down and also avoid fungal infections. If you’re taking your puppy on the trail then it’s highly advisable to consider the booties since their feet are still developing and might have some trouble on rough terrain. Here’s a good site for looking at these.

Do ground checks

When you’re camping in a new place make sure to look for any evidence of big/small animals. In fact, it’s important to note that even small critters like snakes, skunks, and porcupines can cause a lot of trouble for you and your dog. You should also watch for plants like poison ivy that could cause trouble for a curious pooch. Before you set up camp make sure to sweep the campsite to make sure there aren’t any major dangers so you’ll have peace of mind.

Use dog packs for fully grown animal

Dog packs are helpful in allowing man’s best friend to haul some of the gear. However, make sure your dog I fully grown before using them. You should also consider the weight of the packs. They shouldn’t be more than one-quarter of the dog’s body weight. Before you go hiking with dog packs make sure you train your pet so they’ll be ready for the experience.

Train your dog

It’s important to train your dog before you go into the wildness with him. It should be like training him for other outdoor activities. Start out with some basic hiking to make sure your dog is in shape for hiking. Then boost your goals and be certain your canine can handle it. Dogs are very loyal pets and will even follow you on the trail even if they’re totally exhausted. So it’s critical to make sure your dog gets rest when it needs it. This will help to keep it energized when you’re on the trail.

Keep your dog active all week

It’s important to take this step so they’ll be prepared for weekend strolls. It’s just humans needing to be in good shape before they do rigorous exercise. It’s important to “train” your dog for the type of hiking you’ll be doing. For example, you could walk them through neighborhoods with lots of hills to help simulate the terrain you’ll be walking on in the wilderness.

Tether if you’ll be nearby

This is especially important for curious pups. They might see or smell something and want to wander about. The problem with this situation is it causes them to have an unfriendly meeting with wildlife. If you’re going to tether your pet make sure you’re nearby. Never do it if you’re at the campsite since there are dangers like predators and it can cause your canine to experience “separation anxiety.”

Learn the guidelines

Before you go on your trip make sure you learn the rules of the campground, property, etc. it’s important to keep in mind that just because you’re in a natural environment and alone doesn’t mean there aren’t rules. There are various parks like US National Forest campgrounds that permit pets. However, there are usually rules like they must be leashed and under control whether they’re on trails or campgrounds.

There are also some parks like buildings or beaches that don’t allow pets. Sometimes there’s also the requirement of providing proof your dog has received a rabies vaccine. Make sure to learn about any rules or regulations where you’re going so you can avoid possible issues.